The season 12 premiere of NBC’s “Chicago P.D.” delivered an unexpected twist that left viewers surprised. A new detective, Emily Martel played by Victoria Cartagena, had joined the Intelligence Unit just one month before. However, in the final scene Martel was suddenly shot by a sniper while on duty.
Showrunner Gwen Sigan explained this plot was more than just dramatic – it’s tied to themes of mortality and purpose that will be explored this season. Sergeant Hank Voight, played by Jason Beghe, will reflect on changes from last year, including Detective Hailey Upton’s departure and his own near death experience. In a telling moment, Voight said he had a vision of his late friend Alvin Olinsky during his brush with death, who told him his time wasn’t up yet.
Voight has been throwing himself into work, taking on many cases, which another character noted seemed like running from his mortality. Martel’s death will affect all the characters, according to Sigan, serving as a reminder of police work’s dangers. It will influence relationships and decisions throughout the season. Sigan hinted it may lead to promotions and new team members to fill the gap.
Series regulars Kim Burgess and new Officer Kiana Cook did not appear in the premiere, but Sigan assured their characters will feature in upcoming episodes, with Cook getting a key case in episode five. Overall, season 12 looks to tackle serious themes while reshaping the show’s formula, exploring identity and change against Chicago’s gritty police backdrop.
